In an increasingly interconnected world, bilingualism is no longer just a benefit—it’s a necessity. The California State Seal of Biliteracy, denoted by a gold seal on diplomas and transcripts, affirms the critical role language plays in identity, equity, and future opportunity. Recognizing students who master English and additional languages helps encourage a globally competitive, culturally fluent, and community-driven workforce.
Excitement and pride filled the air as students and family members packed the Cordova High School Performing Arts Auditorium last Monday evening when the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) honored hundreds of the nearly 2,400 high school seniors from across the county who earned the impressive recognition. The annual ceremony celebrates students who demonstrate academic proficiency in English, plus at least one other language—many in two or more.
“Each student we honor tonight has proven that bilingualism and multilingualism are not just academic skills, but bridges to culture, identity, and opportunity,” said Sacramento County Superintendent of Schools David W. Gordon in his opening remarks at the April 28 event. Recipients represented 29 different languages, including American Sign Language, Dari, Hindi, Tagalog, Telugu, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and more. This year, 100 students earned the Seal in three languages or more—a record-breaking figure that showcases Sacramento’s rich linguistic diversity and commitment to multilingual excellence.
A keynote address was delivered by Carlos and Daniela Kandia, co-founders of Latino event production company Kandia Entertainment. The powerhouse duo inspired students with a message rooted in perseverance, pride, and the power of language to connect communities.
The program also featured student speakers, whose reflections moved the audience. “Getting the State Seal of Biliteracy means more than just being fluent in three languages,” said Anvitha Samineni of Mira Loma High School (San Juan USD). “Each language I’ve learned has opened a different door.” Fellow honoree Yee Jen Lin of Folsom High School (Folsom Cordova USD) added, “I am a conglomeration of cultures—Taiwan’s millennia of influences alongside an American dream of diversity.”
The ceremony was broadcast live thanks to the Sacramento Educational Cable Consortium (SECC). A recording will also be made available.
Participating Districts
SCOE collaborated with the following school districts and independent charter schools in Sacramento County for this year’s Seal of Biliteracy recognition ceremony. Representatives from each district presented students with certificates during the ceremony.
- Center Joint Unified School District
- Elk Grove Unified School District
- Folsom Cordova Unified School District
- Galt Joint Union High School District
- Natomas Unified School District
- Natomas Charter School
- Natomas Pacific Pathways Prep Charter
- River Delta Unified School District
- Sacramento City Unified School District
- Sacramento County Office of Education
- Rex & Margaret Fortune Early College High School
- San Juan Unified School District
- Visions In Education Charter School
- Twin Rivers Unified School District
- Gateway Community Charters